Bizarre ZIL Russian army Humvee concept revealed
Futuristic-looking personnel carrier concept built by Russian tractor firm ZIL, and reportedly commissioned for army use
Russian tractor builder ZIL has created this strange concept of a futuristic Humvee-style army personnel carrier. The as yet unnamed machine looks completely unlike any military vehicles we've previously seen around the world, with a shallow sloping roof making the front end look like that of a large aircraft. The bodywork looks purposeful and aggressive with an amazing oversized grille, and you can see the working chassis underneath the bodywork.
The vehicle, based on the chassis of the standard-issue US army Humvee, is said to be able to carry 10 people into combat in various seating positions. Two chairs at the back corners of the truck can be used by gunners, deploying weapons through the hatch doors. We understand this bizarre ZIL concept has been commissioned by the Russian army, which currently requires a 4x4 between 1 and 2.5 tonnes. The comparatively low kerbweight suggests the armour plating may be lightweight, but the sloped underbody is designed to deflect mine blasts.
The ZIL is powered by a Cummins inline-4 diesel engine with 183bhp, through a five speed manual gearbox to all four wheels. Despite the futuristic styling, it uses traditional leaf springs and drum brakes. Expect to see a luxurious civilian version in the hands of Russian oligarchs within the next few years.
